Downtown Vancouver private school closes, more than 130 students affected

A financially troubled private elementary and high school in Vancouver’s Yaletown neighbourhood has closed, leaving more than 130 students and their parents in search of placements in new schools.

The B.C. Ministry of Education and Child Care said it was informed by the Westside Preparatory Society that it needed to close the independent, private Westside School due to financial issues.

“We understand how difficult this may be for students, and the Ministry of Education and Child Care is working to ensure that any students wishing to join the public school system are supported,” education ministry spokesman Meghan McRae said in a written statement.

The province provides some funding to independent schools, but at a much lower level than to public schools.

The Westside School and its officials could not be reached for comment. The schools, like others in the province, are currently closed for spring break.